Making steps for dogs has a lot of advantages both for you and your pet. For one, it helps your pet maneuver tricky spaces, such as when it needs to get into and out of your car. Secondly, your beloved furry friend is protected and turned as far away from fall-related injuries as possible. Making steps for dogs can actually be done right in your own home without you dishing out serious dollars on the project. Here are the steps for making steps for dogs using a sturdy foam product.
- Purchase sturdy polystyrene foam. Polystyrene foam is more commonly known as Styrofoam. You can use polystyrene foam with sufficient thickness and density to make durable steps for your pet dogs. This product can be commonly acquired from big upholstery supplies stores or home improvement shops. If there are none in your area, then you can opt to buy online. Again, make sure that you specify the thickness and density so as not to get a Styrofoam that will cave in when stepped on by your pet dog. Purchase three separate Styrofoam pieces. The first block of Styrofoam should measure 4″ in height, 12″ in width, and 12″ in length. The second block should be 4″ in height, 12″ in width, and 20″ in length. Lastly, the third block should be measured at 4″ in height, 12″ in width, and 28″ in length.
- Make sure you use the right kind of adhesive for the project. Styrofoam melts when it comes in contact with specific chemicals that are present in some adhesive products. And when Styrofoam melts, it releases a cocktail of harmful gases. When buying glue for the project, make sure that you check the label. Do not buy those that have been mixed with petroleum as these types will instantly melt the Styrofoam upon contact. Rubber cement and spray on adhesives are your best options for this specific project. Start the process of making dog steps.
- Get the first block and apply sufficient amounts of adhesive on its base. Attach the glued part onto the top of the second block of Styrofoam. You can leave the two joined blocks to dry if necessary. Once dry and set firmly, get the recently joined Styrofoam blocks and put adequate amounts of adhesive onto the base of the bigger block. Attach the glued portion onto the top of the third block and leave to dry.
If you want to make the dog steps colorful, then you can opt to sew a removable cover made from washable fabric. You can also have the dog steps painted on if you want. Again, do not make use of paints that have petroleum. Use those that are water-based to avoid melting the Styrofoam.